Penang: The Penang government, through Penang Halal International (PHI), has offered to collaborate with Mahabbah Carnival to organise a larger event at the state level. Penang Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid stated that the collaboration aims to bring in more entrepreneurs and provide them with an expanded platform to promote their products, thus enhancing marketing opportunities significantly.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamad highlighted potential partnerships with the Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP), the Penang Bumiputera Development Council, and the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) of the Prime Minister’s Department (JPM). He emphasized that the collaboration could facilitate entrepreneurial activities through the Mahabbah Carnival. This announcement was made during the opening of the Mahabbah Ramadan Syawal Carnival at Bertam Square last night.

Mohamad suggested that with such a collaboration, the carnival could be held biannually. He mentioned plans to meet with the Mahabbah Carnival organisers to discuss the proposal further. He also noted the potential to organise an event similar to the Penang International Halal Trade Expo (PIHEX) but in conjunction with the Mahabbah Carnival, providing a marketing platform for entrepreneurs. He encouraged entrepreneurs without a halal certificate to apply promptly to expand their market reach both locally and internationally.

Meanwhile, the Mahabbah Carnival organiser, Zaini Aboo Hassan, expressed optimism about the proposed collaboration and hoped for discussions to bring it to fruition. He noted that the current carnival has been well-received, drawing approximately 200,000 visitors since opening on March 2, and is targeting 500,000 visitors by its conclusion on March 30. The event features 350 traders from across Malaysia, offering a wide array of products and services.